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Sawbench, near Betws-y-Coed, starting point for a short historical walk overlooking Llanwrst (see below)

Sawbench

Sawbench is the starting point for the Gwydir Mawr Trail, a red graded mountain bike trail which means it is only suitable for proficient riders with good off-roading skills.

For walkers, there is a short walk with great viewpoints overlooking the market town of Llanwrst.

Closures and diversions

Sometimes we need to close or divert trails for your safety whilst we undertake maintenance work or forest operations

Occasionally we may have to close a site in extreme weather, such as high winds or snow and ice due to the risk of injury to visitors or staff

Please always follow any instructions onsite and make sure you follow any temporary diversion signs in place

Walking trail

The walking trail is waymarked and starts from the car park.

Lady Mary’s Walk

1.3 miles, 2.1 kilometres

This short walking trail is named after Lady Mary from the Wynne family who established the Gwydir estate – the summer house and chapel are nearby. There are benches along the route to enjoy the views over Llanwrst and the Conwy Valley towards the sea.

Mountain biking trails

The 25km Gwydir Mawr Trail is a long established mountain bike trail and, for those who want a shorter ride, the Gwydir Bach Trail follows 8.7km of the main trail.

The mountain biking trails are waymarked and start from Sawbench car park.

See our mountain biking page for a list of all our mountain bike trails and information about grading to make sure you pick a trail that is right for you.

Please also read the relevant onsite information before setting off on your ride.

Gwydir Mawr Trail

25 kilometres, grade red

Gwydir Mawr has big climbs, big descents and brilliant singletrack. Most of the climbs are on forest roads and tracks giving time to take in the mountain views. The descents are on singletrack which varies from very tight, technical and rocky to open and flowing.

Gwydir Bach Trail

8.7 kilometres, grade red

Gwydir Bach is the little sister to Gwydir Mawr but its two big climbs lead to the best descents of the whole trail. The singletrack varies from very traditional tight, technical and rocky to open and flowing, with a few modern features thrown in.

How to get here

Sawbench is one mile west of Llanrwst off the B5106.

The OS grid reference is SH 790 609.

Car parking is free of charge.

Directions

Turn west off the B5106 near Gwydir Castle, Llanrwst, onto a minor road into the forest. Then take the first forest road on the left signposted Sawbench/Mainc Llifio.

Public transport

The nearest train station is in Llanrwst. For details of public transport visit www.traveline.cymru